President Joe Biden Warns Israel of “Mistake” in Gaza

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The ongoing conflict in Gaza continues to draw international attention, and recently, United States President Joe Biden issued a warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the growing instability in the region. The leaders spoke for the first time in over a month, and President Biden highlighted the potential humanitarian crisis and the seriousness of an Israeli attack on Rafah.

President Biden emphasized the need for a strategic and comprehensive dialogue, stating that despite several discussions at various levels, there has yet to be an opportunity for a thorough and all-encompassing conversation. He urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to develop a well-defined strategy for Gaza instead of launching an attack in Rafah.

Người dân Palestine chờ nhận thực phẩm tại TP Rafah ở Gaza. Ảnh: Reuters
Image: Người dân Palestine chờ nhận thực phẩm tại TP Rafah ở Gaza. Ảnh: Reuters

In response, Prime Minister Netanyahu agreed to President Biden’s request to send a delegation of top Israeli security officials to Washington to discuss their plans for Rafah. However, he also stressed Israel’s objectives of eliminating Hamas, releasing hostages, and ensuring that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel. He expressed willingness to provide the necessary humanitarian aid to achieve these goals.

Các căn lều tạm là nơi trú ẩn của những người Palestine di rời đến Rafah. Ảnh: Reuters
Image: Các căn lều tạm là nơi trú ẩn của những người Palestine di rời đến Rafah. Ảnh: Reuters

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan confirmed that the United States and Israel would engage in a comprehensive discussion on the future of Gaza. The meeting is expected to take place within the next week or so, with no activities related to Rafah planned prior to the negotiations. Sullivan also clarified that President Biden has not imposed any limitations on aid to Israel.

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Observers believe that the United States is facing increasing pressure as the death toll in Gaza rises, and the humanitarian situation worsens. Many displaced Palestinians initially sought shelter in central Gaza and later moved to Khan Younis in the south before ultimately fleeing to Rafah, near the Egyptian border. In the past five months, the population of Rafah has soared to over 1.5 million people, compared to its previous figure of around 300,000.

Israeli leaders have repeatedly expressed their intention to attack Rafah, which serves as a vital hub for humanitarian aid across the Egyptian border. Nevertheless, Western countries, including Israel’s European allies, have warned against such an assault on Rafah.

President Biden’s warning to Israel reflects the growing concern for the welfare of civilians in Gaza and the urgent need for a strategic approach to address the crisis. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Israel will respond to the international pressure and whether diplomatic efforts can help alleviate the suffering of the people in Gaza.